Best Crypto Apps Better Than Coinbase in 2025

Coinbase has long been the go-to crypto app for millions of traders, especially in the U.S. Its clean interface and strong compliance made it the “safe choice.” But in 2025, traders are asking for more — lower fees, better rewards, and deeper control over their assets. The market has evolved, and so have crypto apps. Today, several alternatives not only match Coinbase’s simplicity but also outperform it in innovation and earning potential.

👉 For a broader list of options, check our guide on the best crypto trading apps in the USA.

Why Look Beyond Coinbase?

Coinbase’s reputation is built on trust and accessibility — but that trust now comes at a cost. The exchange charges noticeably higher trading fees, often between 0.4% and 1.5%, depending on the trade type and region. Meanwhile, other apps have cut fees dramatically, sometimes offering zero-fee trading or rebates for active users.

Beyond costs, Coinbase’s limited coin selection and slow rollout of new features frustrate users who want to explore DeFi, staking, or yield farming directly within one app. Competitors like Binance and BitGlide are integrating Web3 wallets, staking dashboards, and even NFT marketplaces — all under one roof.

Coinbase also keeps users’ private keys, meaning you don’t truly “own” your crypto unless you withdraw it. That’s a growing concern for traders who prefer more control and privacy.

As we move into 2025, convenience is no longer enough — users expect speed, control, and cost efficiency. If Coinbase was the training ground for new crypto investors, these new apps are the advanced tools for modern traders who want flexibility and freedom.

👉 To see how Coinbase stacks up, explore our detailed crypto exchange fee comparison.

What Makes a Crypto App Better Than Coinbase?

To fairly compare alternatives, we first need to define what “better” really means in 2025. The following key traits separate top-performing apps from traditional exchanges like Coinbase:

Lower Fees and Costs

Coinbase’s trading fees can eat into small profits. Top alternatives now offer maker-taker fees below 0.1%, and some even use a subscription model for unlimited trading.

More Coins to Trade

Coinbase supports a few hundred coins, but other platforms like Binance or OKX list over 600 assets, including trending DeFi tokens.

Simpler and Faster Account Setup

Apps like BitGlide and Webull have instant onboarding through ID verification, cutting waiting times from hours to minutes.

Easier to Use

Coinbase is simple, but apps like Gemini and Crypto.com now offer customizable dashboards, allowing both beginners and experts to tailor their interface.

Extra Security Features

Two-factor authentication and cold storage are now standard, but new apps also provide withdrawal whitelists, hardware wallet integration, and proof-of-reserves transparency.

Holding Your Own Keys

Self-custody options are gaining traction. Apps that let users connect external wallets or hold non-custodial balances are becoming the new benchmark.

More Earning Opportunities

From staking and lending to cashback cards, top apps offer multiple ways to grow your holdings passively.

Better Customer Support

Many new exchanges now offer 24/7 live chat or even phone support — a feature Coinbase lacks.

Advanced Features

Copy trading, futures, and automated portfolios are now common even on mobile, appealing to both retail and pro traders.

How We Selected the Best Apps

Choosing which crypto apps truly outperform Coinbase in 2025 required deep analysis, not just surface-level comparisons. We examined usability, security, fees, and innovation to create a fair and credible list.

We Compared Key Features

We compared how each app handles buying, trading, staking, and withdrawing crypto — focusing on ease of navigation, mobile experience, and customization.

Lower Fees and More Coins

Fee structures were tested across multiple trade sizes. Apps offering lower spreads or zero-fee tiers scored higher. We also gave points for supporting more tradable assets than Coinbase.

Rewards and Extra Benefits

From staking APYs to cashback cards, we evaluated which platforms actually help users earn more from the same portfolio size.

Easy to Use for Everyone

We tested each app’s user interface for beginners and advanced traders — simplicity without sacrificing control.

Safety and Security

Every app included uses 2FA, SSL encryption, cold storage, and complies with regional regulations. Apps with proof-of-reserves earned bonus trust points.

Final Choice Depends on Needs

Not all traders want the same thing — some prioritize low fees, others staking rewards or advanced charting tools. That’s why we categorized the best crypto apps by user type: beginners, investors, and power traders.

Top Crypto Apps Better Than Coinbase in 2025

Let’s explore the top crypto trading apps that outperform Coinbase this year — based on fees, usability, features, and innovation.

BitGlide – The Rising Star of 2025

Official Website – BitGlide

BitGlide is the “new wave” crypto app making headlines for its frictionless trading experience. Think of it as the Robinhood of crypto — but with better design, smarter analytics, and actual crypto ownership.

The app offers zero-fee trading, a built-in non-custodial wallet, and instant deposits via cards or bank transfers. Unlike Coinbase, BitGlide doesn’t lock your funds under their custody. You trade directly while holding your keys.

It also has an AI-driven trade assistant, which suggests entry and exit points based on price momentum — great for active traders. Plus, the staking dashboard offers up to 12% APY on assets like SOL and ETH, far higher than Coinbase’s 3–4%.

👉 You can read our complete BitGlide review (2025) for an in-depth look at this new app.

Binance – The Global Powerhouse

Official Website – Binance

Binance remains a tough competitor in 2025. Despite tighter U.S. regulations, its global platform leads in low fees, liquidity, and advanced tools.

With over 600 cryptocurrencies, Binance’s reach far exceeds Coinbase’s offerings. Traders benefit from maker-taker fees under 0.1%, while VIP users pay even less. Binance also has Binance Earn, where you can stake, lend, or use auto-invest plans to compound your holdings passively.

Its Binance Pro mobile app includes features like futures trading, cross-margin, and copy trading, giving traders full control from their phone. Coinbase simply doesn’t match this versatility.

👉 See how Binance compares in our Binance vs Coinbase vs Kraken breakdown.

Kraken – Best for Secure Staking

Official Website – Kraken

Kraken remains one of the most regulated and trustworthy crypto exchanges in 2025. Known for its robust security, proof-of-reserves, and transparent fee model, it’s a favorite for both new and professional traders.

Unlike Coinbase, Kraken still offers staking for U.S. users (via Kraken Earn), with ETH staking yields around 6%. The platform also supports instant bank withdrawals, a major plus for liquidity-conscious traders.

Its Kraken Pro interface rivals Coinbase Advanced but charges far less — trading fees start as low as 0.16% for makers.

👉 For a deeper comparison of transaction speeds and costs, check out our Coinbase vs Crypto.com analysis.

Webull – The Stock-Trader’s Crypto Bridge

Official Website – Webull

Webull began as a stock trading app but has evolved into a serious crypto platform in 2025. Its sleek interface, fast execution, and no trading commissions make it ideal for crossover investors.

It supports popular assets like BTC, ETH, DOGE, and SOL — not the full DeFi range, but enough for most traders. Webull’s charting tools and technical indicators outshine Coinbase’s simplified layout, appealing to those who prefer data-driven trades.

Another highlight: crypto-to-stock transfer flexibility. You can easily shift profits from crypto into ETFs or equities without leaving the app — something Coinbase doesn’t offer.

👉 For traders in the U.S., here’s our detailed Webull vs Coinbase comparison.

Crypto.com – All-in-One App for Earning and Spending

Official Website – Crypto.com

Crypto.com positions itself as an ecosystem, not just an exchange. It offers staking, DeFi wallet integration, crypto credit cards, and recurring buys — all accessible from a single dashboard.

Its fee structure is much lower than Coinbase, especially if you stake CRO (the native token). Regular users enjoy up to 0.075% trading fees and cashback rewards on purchases using the Crypto.com Visa Card.

Crypto.com’s biggest advantage is usability — the app is clean, fast, and gamified, rewarding consistent traders with higher tiers.

OKX – The Web3 Powerhouse

Official Website – OKX

OKX has rapidly evolved into one of the most versatile crypto trading ecosystems in 2025. It’s not just a centralized exchange — it’s a bridge to DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 wallets, making it far more advanced than Coinbase’s simple app.

With over 700 listed assets, OKX offers traders incredible flexibility. Fees are among the lowest in the market — 0.08% for makers and 0.1% for takers, beating Coinbase by a wide margin.

What really stands out is OKX’s DeFi hub, where users can stake, lend, and connect to external dApps without leaving the platform. It’s ideal for traders who want to explore the decentralized economy safely and easily.

OKX also supports proof-of-reserves, transparent audits, and flexible API trading — a rare combination for an exchange this fast.

Gemini – Best for Compliance and Transparency

Official Website – Gemini

Founded by the Winklevoss twins, Gemini remains a trusted U.S.-regulated exchange emphasizing security, compliance, and simplicity.

It may not have the widest coin selection, but Gemini’s Gemini Earn and ActiveTrader platforms give users full control over their investments. Its instant fiat deposits, insurance coverage, and regulated custody make it ideal for traders who prioritize peace of mind.

Gemini’s mobile app is sleek and perfect for newcomers — yet advanced enough for pros who want limit orders, charting, and OTC trades.

Gemini’s Proof-of-Reserves program adds another layer of credibility — an area where Coinbase, ironically, still lacks full transparency.

Swan Bitcoin – The Bitcoin Purist’s Alternative

Official Website – Swan Bitcoin

If you believe in Bitcoin as the future of money, Swan Bitcoin is your go-to app. It focuses solely on BTC accumulation, removing the noise of altcoins and speculative tokens.

Swan’s standout feature is its automatic recurring buys — users can DCA (dollar-cost average) weekly or monthly into Bitcoin effortlessly. The fees are lower than Coinbase’s spot trades, and users can withdraw BTC directly to their own wallet, ensuring full custody.

The app also offers Swan Private, a high-touch service for serious investors who want strategic guidance and tax optimization for large BTC portfolios.

👉 Learn more in our Swan Bitcoin vs Coinbase review.

Comparison Table: Coinbase vs Top Alternatives

👉 If safety is your top priority, check out the safest crypto trading apps of 2025.

Fee & Reward Comparison: Who Really Pays More?

The main reason many users move away from Coinbase is high trading costs. Let’s break it down.

Coinbase typically charges around 1.49% for standard trades, plus spreads and withdrawal fees. In contrast, Binance, Kraken, and OKX offer fees under 0.1%, saving traders hundreds — even thousands — annually.

BitGlide goes a step further with zero-fee trading, relying instead on a subscription model or spread-based micro-fees hidden within transactions. For frequent traders, this model is far more predictable.

When it comes to rewards, Coinbase’s staking APYs average 3–4%, while competitors like OKX (up to 15%) and Crypto.com (up to 10%) lead the market. Kraken remains the most reliable option for regulated ETH staking in the U.S.

Even Webull, though limited in crypto features, offers fee-free transactions that make it attractive for traders who already manage stocks.

👉 Check out these crypto apps with low fees for U.S. traders.

Security Proof & Regulation Check

Security remains the single biggest concern in crypto, especially after the 2022–2023 exchange collapses. In 2025, regulation and transparency define which apps truly earn user trust.

Coinbase has always emphasized compliance, but others are now catching up — and in some cases, surpassing it. Kraken and Gemini hold multiple U.S. and European licenses and regularly publish proof-of-reserves verified by third-party audits.

OKX and Binance have implemented Merkle Tree-based audits, letting users independently verify that their funds exist and are unencumbered.

BitGlide takes a modern approach: it’s non-custodial, so funds never sit in a shared pool — reducing counterparty risk. Users’ assets remain directly in their control, protected by biometric verification and on-device encryption.

Finally, Crypto.com has set an industry standard with ISO 27001 and SOC 2 compliance, along with insurance coverage for custodial holdings.

In short, Coinbase remains safe — but not uniquely so anymore. Competing apps are just as secure, if not more transparent.

Real-World User Reviews & App Ratings

Nothing reveals truth like user experience. Across Trustpilot, Reddit, and app stores, the conversation in 2025 has shifted.

Coinbase still scores high on ease of use but receives consistent criticism for customer support delays and unexpected holds on withdrawals. Many users now describe it as “too corporate” or “slow to innovate.”

In contrast:

• BitGlide earns praise for its instant withdrawals and zero-fee trades, scoring an average 4.8★ on the App Store.
• Kraken holds 4.7★ ratings, appreciated for security and customer trust.
• Crypto.com users love the cashback rewards and Visa card ecosystem.
• OKX is often rated 4.6★, especially for its Web3 wallet integration.
• Gemini remains the preferred choice for institutional users due to its compliance-first approach.

Even Webull, though focused on multi-asset trading, gets consistent positive reviews for its smooth interface and reliability.

Coinbase? Still solid, but no longer the top dog. The message from users is clear: it’s time to explore smarter, cheaper, and more rewarding alternatives.

Web3 & DeFi Integration: The 2025 Advantage

Crypto apps are no longer just for buying and selling tokens. In 2025, the best ones act as gateways to Web3 — letting users connect wallets, stake, lend, borrow, and even mint NFTs in-app.

OKX, BitGlide, and Crypto.com lead this transformation. They combine centralized trading with decentralized finance tools, bridging traditional users to the future of blockchain.

BitGlide’s DeFi Connect feature allows instant access to lending pools and staking nodes without the complexity of MetaMask or browser extensions. Meanwhile, OKX Wallet supports direct interaction with dApps across chains like Ethereum, Solana, and Avalanche — seamlessly from your phone.

Coinbase, in contrast, still treats its Web3 wallet as a separate app, creating friction for users who want everything integrated.

As traders mature, this seamless Web3 access becomes essential. The ability to earn, borrow, or trade NFTs without juggling multiple apps defines the modern crypto experience.

In short: Web3 integration isn’t just a bonus anymore — it’s a must-have advantage in 2025.

Expert Insights: Traders & Analysts Pick Their Favorites

To understand which apps truly outperform Coinbase, we reached out (via survey data and public commentary) to crypto analysts and pro traders active in 2025.

Their top picks reflected a balance of usability, security, and innovation:

• BitGlide – “Best for active traders who want fee-free trades and instant execution.”
• Kraken – “The safest place to stake ETH in the U.S.”
• OKX – “Ideal for Web3 investors who want access to dApps without leaving the exchange.”
• Binance – “Still unmatched in liquidity and trading depth.”
• Crypto.com – “Great for mobile-first users earning through cards and staking.”

Industry veterans highlight a key shift: users now value hybrid apps — ones that blend centralized reliability with decentralized access. Coinbase’s simplicity is admirable, but it no longer satisfies users demanding multi-chain flexibility and financial autonomy.

As analyst Daniel Hsu noted:

“Coinbase taught people how to buy crypto. But now they want to use it — to earn, stake, and explore Web3. The new apps give them that freedom.”

This insight underscores the new definition of “better”: apps that empower users, not just safeguard them.

Transparency & Proof-of-Reserves: Why It Matters in 2025

After the FTX collapse, users learned a hard lesson — not all exchanges are as solvent as they appear. That’s why proof-of-reserves (PoR) has become the gold standard for trust.

Coinbase claims transparency through its public filings as a U.S. company, but it still doesn’t provide a full on-chain PoR system. In contrast, Kraken, Binance, OKX, and Crypto.com publish cryptographic audits that let users verify holdings independently.

This trend aligns with growing user demand for self-verifiable security. With a few clicks, you can confirm your assets exist on-chain, reducing reliance on corporate assurances.

BitGlide, being non-custodial, sidesteps this issue entirely — your funds never mix with the company’s reserves.

Transparency isn’t just a buzzword anymore — it’s a trust metric. Apps that openly prove solvency are winning the credibility war in 2025.

How to Choose the Right Crypto App for You

There’s no one-size-fits-all crypto app. The “best” choice depends on your goals, experience level, and trading habits. Here’s a quick framework to help you decide:

Security First

Always pick apps with proof-of-reserves, insurance coverage, or non-custodial wallets. Never compromise here.

Easy-to-Use Interface

For beginners, apps like BitGlide and Crypto.com are intuitive. Advanced users may prefer Kraken Pro or OKX for extra control.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Check if your app supports your favorite coins. Traders who explore DeFi should lean toward Binance or OKX, while Bitcoin purists may prefer Swan Bitcoin.

Fees and Costs

Avoid hidden costs. Review both trading and withdrawal fees.
👉 Here’s a simple guide on how to withdraw from crypto apps safely.

Payment and Deposit Options

Choose platforms that support local payment methods or instant card deposits for smooth transactions.

Reputation and Reviews

Always check user feedback and third-party audits. Avoid any app with unresolved complaints or unclear licensing.

Advanced Features

If you’re an active trader, look for features like copy trading, AI alerts, and staking dashboards.

Customer Support

Quick support can save you time and money. Prioritize apps with 24/7 live chat or verified community channels.

Expert Tips for Switching from Coinbase

Moving from Coinbase to a new crypto app can feel like changing banks — it’s not complicated, but you need to do it carefully. Whether you’re switching for lower fees, more features, or better staking rewards, here’s a practical guide to make the move smooth and safe.

Prepare Your New Wallet or Exchange Account

Start by choosing and setting up your new exchange or wallet. Complete KYC verification if required, enable 2FA, and make sure the platform supports the coins you plan to transfer. Double-check the deposit addresses — one typo can mean permanent loss of funds.

Transfer Crypto Step-by-Step

Transfer your assets gradually. Begin with a small test transaction to confirm the address and network are correct. Once verified, move the remaining balance. Avoid moving your entire portfolio at once — smaller batches reduce the risk of errors or network congestion.

Minimize Fees When Transferring

Plan your transfers during off-peak hours when blockchain fees are lower. If your new platform supports fee-free internal transfers (like between Binance and Binance Wallet), use them. Some networks, like Polygon or Solana, are cheaper than Ethereum for token transfers — take advantage of that.

Keep Some Funds on Coinbase for Flexibility

Don’t delete your Coinbase account right away. Keep a small amount for fiat withdrawals or quick trades. Coinbase still has strong U.S. on-ramp support, which can be handy when moving cash back to your bank.

Practice Good Security

Use strong passwords, enable 2FA, and consider a hardware wallet for long-term storage. Always bookmark exchange URLs to avoid phishing sites.

Final Advice

Switching platforms isn’t about loyalty — it’s about optimizing your returns and control. Do your research, take it slow, and prioritize security over speed every step of the way.

Future of Crypto Apps in 2025 and Beyond

Crypto apps in 2025 are evolving into powerful all-in-one platforms. What started as simple trading tools has grown into ecosystems that blend AI, Web3, DeFi, and real-world payments. The next generation of apps will let users trade, stake, lend, and even earn rewards — all within a single dashboard.

Expect AI-driven analytics to guide investment decisions, while proof-of-reserves and multi-chain connectivity make security and transparency the new norm. Regulation will tighten, but this will also bring more trust and safer access for U.S. users.

The future belongs to apps that offer more control and lower costs without sacrificing ease of use. Coinbase helped millions start their crypto journey, but 2025’s leading platforms are building the bridge to a truly decentralized and user-owned financial future — where convenience meets innovation.

Final Verdict: Which App Truly Outshines Coinbase?

So, which crypto app truly beats Coinbase in 2025? The answer depends on what you value most — but several platforms clearly stand out.

If low fees and advanced trading tools matter most, Binance takes the lead with its deep liquidity, pro-level charting, and flexible options. For security and staking rewards, Kraken remains the most balanced choice, offering strong regulatory compliance and transparent proof-of-reserves.

Traders seeking a simpler, mobile-first experience might prefer BitGlide, the rising star of 2025 known for its lightning-fast setup and clean interface. Meanwhile, Webull and Crypto.com cater to hybrid investors who want both traditional stocks and crypto in one app.

Ultimately, Coinbase still ranks high for beginners — but its high fees and limited flexibility are tough to ignore. The real winners are the apps that put user control, lower costs, and innovation first. In 2025, the crypto world finally offers better choices — and that’s a win for everyone.

Real Case Study: A Trader’s Experience Migrating from Coinbase

Meet Daniel, a 32-year-old crypto trader who started his journey on Coinbase back in 2019. Like many beginners, he loved Coinbase’s clean design and trusted its reputation. But as his portfolio grew, Daniel began noticing the downsides — especially high trading fees and limited staking options. By early 2025, he decided it was time to explore better alternatives.

His first step was research. Daniel compared major platforms, reading user reviews and watching YouTube breakdowns. He eventually shortlisted Kraken, Binance, and BitGlide — each offering something Coinbase lacked. Kraken appealed for its regulation and transparency, Binance for its low fees, and BitGlide for its smooth mobile experience.

Daniel started small. He created accounts on each platform, enabling 2FA and testing transfers with $50 worth of USDT. The difference was immediate — Binance charged nearly 80% less in fees, and Kraken offered higher staking yields on ETH and DOT. BitGlide impressed him with its quick trade execution and modern UI.

Within two weeks, Daniel had successfully migrated 90% of his assets off Coinbase. He kept a small balance there for fiat conversions but relied mainly on Binance for trading and Kraken for long-term staking. His monthly trading costs dropped by almost $200, and his overall returns improved thanks to higher APYs.

Daniel’s biggest lesson? Switching exchanges isn’t about chasing hype — it’s about aligning your tools with your strategy. For him, that meant choosing platforms that matched his goals: low fees, reliability, and growth opportunities.

Today, Daniel calls Coinbase his “starter exchange,” not his main one. His journey reflects a growing trend among 2025 traders — moving toward multi-exchange setups for flexibility, better rewards, and full control over their crypto.

His advice to others: “Start small, do your research, and never rush transfers. The right crypto app can change how you trade — and how much you earn.

Data-Backed Trends: Most Downloaded Crypto Apps of 2025

The Changing Landscape of Crypto Apps

The crypto app market in 2025 looks very different from just a few years ago. According to data from Sensor Tower and Statista, users are no longer drawn to exchanges for their brand names alone. Instead, they’re seeking lower fees, faster performance, staking rewards, and Web3 integration — areas where many apps now outperform Coinbase.

Top Downloaded Apps of 2025

• Binance continues to lead globally, with over 55 million downloads in the first half of 2025. Its vast crypto selection, AI-driven trading tools, and low-cost transactions keep it ahead.
• Crypto.com ranks second, driven by its popular Visa card rewards program and polished mobile interface.
• BitGlide, the rising newcomer, surprised the market with 12 million downloads within its first year — praised for ultra-fast setup and minimal fees.
• Kraken gained renewed attention from U.S. users, appreciated for its proof-of-reserves transparency and high staking yields.
• Webull holds a steady spot among hybrid traders who invest in both stocks and crypto within one clean interface.
• OKX continues to attract users exploring DeFi and non-custodial wallets, bridging the gap between centralized and decentralized finance.

Key Takeaway

These stats make one thing clear — traders in 2025 prefer control, flexibility, and rewards over simplicity alone. Coinbase still serves as a trusted gateway for beginners, but seasoned users are migrating to platforms that combine innovation, speed, and transparency.

The result? The crypto world is maturing fast, and today’s top apps are shaping the next phase of mainstream blockchain adoption — where convenience meets complete financial freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re exploring crypto apps beyond Coinbase in 2025, here are quick answers to the most common questions traders ask.

Is Coinbase still safe in 2025?
Yes. Coinbase remains secure and regulated in the U.S., though its higher fees make it less appealing for active traders.

Which app has the lowest trading fees?
Binance and BitGlide lead with ultra-low fees (around 0.1% or less per trade).

Best staking alternatives?
Kraken and Crypto.com offer higher staking rewards and more supported coins than Coinbase.

Do these apps support U.S. users?
Yes — Kraken, Webull, BitGlide, and Crypto.com are fully available for U.S. users.

Which is best for beginners?
BitGlide and Crypto.com provide simple, user-friendly designs ideal for newcomers.

Decentralized vs centralized apps?
Decentralized apps (like OKX Web3) offer self-custody; centralized ones handle assets for convenience.

How to transfer crypto safely?
Send test transactions and enable 2FA before moving large amounts.